Intelligence Squared

Gods and Mortals: What Ancient Greek Myths Can Teach Us About Today

Apr 12, 2023

Join classicists Sarah Iles Johnston and Daisy Dunn as they delve into the timeless allure of Greek mythology. Johnston explores the adaptability of these ancient tales and their moral lessons on arrogance and resilience, while Dunn highlights the modern cultural revival of myths. They discuss characters like Medea and the creativity behind adapting these narratives to address contemporary issues. Discover how these age-old stories still resonate today and evoke existential questions, showcasing the dynamic relationship between gods and mortals.

41:34

Episode guests

Daisy Dunn

Sarah Iles Johnston

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

4min

The Fluidity of Myths and Modern Connections

22min

Mythical Lessons: Arrogance and Resilience

6min

Exploring Medea and Artistic Collaboration in Mythology

3min

The Enduring Adaptability of Greek Myths

2min

Reviving Greek Myths: Cultural Reflections in Britain and America

3min

Hercules, Prometheus, Pandora. The compelling characters of Greek mythology continue to fascinate readers thousands of years after their stories were first told. For this edition of the podcast, leading classicist Sarah Iles Johnston comes to Intelligence Squared to discuss their enduring popularity, which is the basis of her recent book, Gods and Mortals: Ancient Greek Myths for Modern Readers. Joining her in conversation is fellow classicist and author Daisy Dunn, author of Gods and Men: 100 Stories from Ancient Greece and Rome.

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